ElaineVisiting Perth for the first time? This laid-back, sun-soaked city offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, local culture, and uniquely Aussie experiences. Whether you’re into relaxing by the water, exploring local markets, or spotting native wildlife, Perth has plenty to offer. To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of top spots that capture the spirit of the city, complete with personal and honest impressions to make your first visit a memorable one!
Also read: Enjoy these Fun Family Activities in Perth and Melbourne
Fremantle Markets
Fremantle Markets is a vibrant, historical market that’s been around since 1897, and it’s a must-visit. You’ll find a mix of fresh produce, local eats, handmade crafts, souvenirs, and unique stalls run by local artisans. It’s a great spot to grab a snack, buy quirky gifts, or just soak up the lively atmosphere. Open mainly on weekends, so plan accordingly!
We visited on a Saturday, and it was buzzing with people. It felt really lovely to see what the weekends are like in Perth.
Caversham Wildlife Park
Caversham Wildlife Park is the perfect place to get up close with Australia’s native animals. You can hand-feed kangaroos, hug koalas, see wombats, dingoes, and more! It’s a fun and interactive experience that’s great for all ages, especially if it’s your first time in Australia!
The only downside is that it’s really far off from the city. (We got lost and had to take an Uber there.)
Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Kings Park and Botanic Garden is one of the world’s largest inner-city parks, and it’s absolutely stunning. You’ll get sweeping views of the Perth skyline and Swan River, plus beautiful walking trails, native gardens, and picnic spots. It’s a great place to relax, take in nature, or catch a sunset over the city.
It was one of the prettiest parks I’ve ever seen throughout all my years of travel!
Elizabeth Quay
Elizabeth Quay is a lively waterfront area in the heart of Perth, perfect for a scenic stroll by the river. It’s got restaurants, cafes, public art, and a cool mix of modern architecture with relaxing vibes. Great for photos, a bite to eat, or just enjoying the views along the Swan River.
Blue Boat House
The Blue Boat House, officially known as the Crawley Edge Boatshed, is one of Perth’s most iconic photo spots. Sitting alone on the Swan River with a long wooden jetty, it’s a favourite for Instagram shots thanks to its simple charm and picturesque backdrop. Go early to avoid the crowds!
The Bell Tower
Located just a short walk from Elizabeth Quay, The Bell Tower is one of Perth’s landmark buildings, so if you’re already in the area, it’s worth a quick stop. But honestly, unless you’re really into bells or history, I wouldn’t recommend paying to go up. There’s not much to see inside, and it’s a really narrow building. Still, it’s a nice spot for a photo from the outside!
The Perth Mint
The Perth Mint is a fascinating spot to learn all about gold and coins. It is super interesting, even if you’re not a huge history buff. One of the highlights is the live demonstration where they show how liquid gold is poured and turned into solid gold bars! And, it’s easy to get there by bus from the CBD, making it a convenient stop on your Perth itinerary.
Rottnest Island
Also read: Immersive Tours That Let You Truly Experience Australia
Rottnest Island is a beautiful getaway full of things to see and do, from stunning beaches to cute quokkas that everyone loves. It’s a charming place to cycle around the island, swim, and snorkel! Even the toilets there were surprisingly clean!
The only funny downside was spotting a snake near an underground bunker, but don’t worry, our guide handled it quickly with a stick. If you get seasick like me, try sitting on the outdoor upper deck during the ferry ride back, it helped!
The Pinnacles
The Pinnacles are incredible limestone formations located about a 3-hour drive from Perth. I would highly recommend joining a day tour group so you don’t have to worry about driving yourself. The unique rock formations are super cool to explore, and if you stay until evening, the stargazing there is truly spectacular.
Final Thoughts
Looking back, this trip honestly exceeded my expectations. There was such a lovely mix of nature, culture, and little surprises along the way that made the whole experience feel really special. I loved how relaxed everything felt, and there was always something interesting around the corner. Whether it was meeting friendly locals, trying something new, or just taking in the views. It’s the kind of place that stays with you, and I’d definitely love to come back and explore even more next time. I hope you’ll enjoy Perth just as much as I did!
